This is the shock finding after the Labor leader completed a quiz that matches people with a Game of Thrones character.

During an interview with Nova FM on Thursday, Shorten was put through a battery of questions to determine who he is in the bloody, power-driven fictional world.

This included picking a character from The Simpsons (he chose the beer lovin' Barney Gumble), an emoji (he chose a baby with a curl), a statement ("you like people who remind you of your parents") a sport (fencing) and a movie (How to Train Your Dragon).

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As a result - thanks to the internet - the Labor leader was found to be golden-locked Cersei Lannister, the mother to King Joffrey, who is known (loathed?) for her scheming and dubious relations with her twin brother, Jamie.

"I was going to be Cersei Lannister no matter what I picked ... I wanted to be Jon Snow," Shorten protested, before noting that Cersei is such as "twisted soul", she should be in the Senate.

But the funny business with Jamie aside, is Cersei really such a strange fit for the Labor leader?

When you think about it, they share some striking similarities.

Both Cersei and Shorten have wielded enormous behind-the-scenes power. And have not been afraid to *cough* crack a few eggs to make an omelette.

It was the Lannister sister who had her husband Robert killed, making her son Joffrey the surprise king. While no one is suggesting that Shorten killed Kevin Rudd in a faux medieval hunting accident, there are parallels to June 2010 here. And indeed to June 2013.

Cersei is also a fierce protector of her children. When her young daughter is sent away to be married, she makes no secret of her opposition to the plan. A bit like that time Shorten wanted a warm pie for his son Rupert.

The Game of Thrones similarities do not stop at Shorten, however.

If Treasurer Joe Hockey did the quiz, what's the bet he would be Tyrion Lannister? Both have a habit of saying things that get them into trouble.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott would be Tywin Lannister - the patriarch trying to keep his family on top, while managing their various boo-boos.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop would be Daenerys Targaryen. Others may not see her as a leadership contender, but only at their peril. The woman has serious firepower.

Former Liberal leader Malcolm Turnbull would be Jon Snow: the black sheep of the family, banished to the icy surrounds of the Wall/ Communications portfolio.

And Palmer United leader Clive Palmer? He would be Olenna Tyrell, the "master" of court politics who sits just a little off to the side. Ready to swoop.